Overview
Occipital neuralgia is a condition where the occipital nerves are injured or inflamed. The pain can be felt at the base of skull, through the scalp, and the back of the head, and it is often confused with migraines or other types of headaches. It is a common type of headache and can spread to areas in the front, back, and side of the head in addition to behind the eyes.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment options may include:
- acupuncture
- changes in routine
- diet
- drugs
- dry heat or moist heat
- herbs
- occupational therapy
- physical therapy
- relaxation techniques
- rest
- surgery
- vitamins
- weight management
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms include:
- Aching
- Burning
- Intense pain (Described as sharp, shooting, jabbing, or similar to electric shock)
- Light sensitivity
- Pain behind the eye
- Pain on either or both sides of the head
- Pain when moving the neck
- Tenderness of the scalp
- Throbbing
DIAGNOSIS / TESTS
Diagnostic tests include:
- Physician interview
- Physical exam
- Nerve block
- Blood tests
- Medication for migraines
- MRI
CAUSES
Causes & contributing factors may include:
- Applying heat to the neck
- Medication
- Microvascular decompression
- Massage
- Nerve blocks
- Occipital nerve stimulation
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs
- Prescription drugs (muscle relaxants, antiseizure drugs, antidepressants)
- Resting
- Steroid shots
- Surgery
FACTS
- Pain from occipital neuralgia starts in the neck and then spreads upwards.
- Occipital neuralgia is often confused with migraines or other types of headaches.
- The most common cause for occipital neuralgia is pinched nerves in the root of someone’s neck.
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Contact our office to schedule an appointment.
OUR OFFICE:
The Pain Experts of Arizona
3370 South Mercy Road
Suite 321
Gilbert, AZ 85297
Phone: 480-550-9393
Fax: 480-999-3375